Local laws and regulations in Kentucky: Alcohol sales regulations and dry counties. Speed limits and traffic laws. Smoking and vaping restrictions. Firearm purchase and carry laws. Landlord-tenant rights and responsibilities. Zoning and property use laws. Hunting and fishing license requirements. Tax obligations: state and local taxes. Voting eligibility and registration laws. Business registration and permits requirements.
Alcohol sales regulations and dry counties
In Kentucky, alcohol sales are regulated with restrictions, such as no sales on Sundays except in some restaurants, and sales are allowed from 6 a.m. to midnight in other venues. The state has 11 dry counties where alcohol sales are prohibited, 53 wet counties where full retail sales are permitted, and 56 moist or dry counties with special circumstances. For more comprehensive information, you can visit the Kentucky Alcohol Laws page on Landmark Recovery's website.
Speed limits and traffic laws
In Kentucky, the "absolute" speed limit law means drivers can be found guilty of speeding even if they are only 1 mile over the limit. Speed limits vary by area, with 15 mph in off-street parking, 35 mph in residential areas, 55 mph on urban highways, and 65 mph on rural interstate highways. Fines and points on the driver's license can result from speeding violations, with penalties increasing based on the speed exceeded and the location. For more detailed information, visit the Kentucky State News to explore how these regulations are enforced throughout the state.
Smoking and vaping restrictions
In Kentucky, a new law effective January 1, 2024, imposes restrictions on the sale of vaping products by allowing only those authorized or pending approval by the FDA. This legislation is facing a constitutional challenge from vape retailers and hemp associations who argue its implications. Amidst these statewide regulations, several local ordinances, such as those in cities like Corinth and Highland Heights, further prohibit smoking and vaping in public buildings and places of employment. For more detailed information, you can refer to the full article on Kentucky Lantern.
Firearm purchase and carry laws
In Kentucky, individuals at least 18 years old who are legally entitled to possess firearms do not require a permit or license to purchase or openly carry firearms, including handguns, shotguns, and rifles. However, for those 21 years old or older, concealed carry without a license is permitted, while a Concealed Carry Deadly Weapons (CCDW) license can still be obtained. This license is recognized for certain benefits, such as bypassing the NICS background check when purchasing a firearm.
Landlord-tenant rights and responsibilities
In Kentucky, landlords are responsible for maintaining habitable living conditions, complying with building and housing codes, and providing essential services like heat and water, while tenants have the right to a safe living environment, timely notifications for evictions, and protection against discrimination. Both parties are governed by the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA). For a more comprehensive guide on these rights, visit the Tenant Rights in Kentucky page.
Zoning and property use laws
In Kentucky, zoning regulations must include provisions for types of zones, uniform regulations within each zone, variances, conditional use permits, and nonconforming uses. These regulations also cover land activities, structure dimensions, density, and special districts, ensuring organized development and community standards. For more detailed information, you can explore the Kentucky Revised Statutes, which provide comprehensive guidelines on planning and zoning to maintain structured growth and adhere to established community expectations.
Hunting and fishing license requirements
In Kentucky, hunting and fishing licenses are mandatory for individuals 16 and older, with specific requirements for residency, age, and disability. Residents must have lived in Kentucky for at least 30 days, and various license types are available, including Senior, Disabled, and Junior licenses, each with its own set of rules and exemptions. For more detailed information, you can visit the Letcher County Clerk's website, which provides comprehensive details on acquiring the necessary licenses and understanding applicable exemptions and regulations.
Tax obligations: state and local taxes
In Kentucky, tax obligations encompass state and local taxes including a state income tax with a flat rate of 4%, occupational taxes (local income tax), city and county taxes, sales tax at 6%, and property taxes. Local governments also impose their own rates, with average local income tax rates ranging from 1.45% to 2.45% depending on the city or county. For more information, visit Kentucky State And Local Taxes: A Beginners Guide to understand these tax structures in greater detail.
Voting eligibility and registration laws
To be eligible to vote in Kentucky, you must be a U.S. citizen, a resident of Kentucky for at least 28 days, and at least 18 years old by Election Day. You can register to vote online, by mail, in person, or at various public locations, and you must provide a valid photo ID to vote in person or include a copy of an acceptable ID with an absentee ballot request. For more comprehensive details, visit the US Vote Foundation website.
Business registration and permits requirements
In Kentucky, businesses must register their name with the state through the Kentucky Business One-Stop Portal, obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN), and apply for an occupational license (business permit) from the City of Lexington, which may also require a certificate of occupancy and compliance with other local and state regulations.